Our Issues

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve of the use of smoked marijuana for so-called medical purposes, and its use is, therefore, unregulated. This has significant implications for patient care since there are too many health risks associated with such use.

Marijuana remains a Schedule I drug because it has no accepted medical value and has a high potential for addiction. There is no scientifically documented benefit for the use of crude marijuana for any medical purpose. In fact, crude smoked marijuana has been rejected by major reputable national medical associations in the country including the American Medical Association, the American Ophthalmic Association, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and the American Cancer Society.

Who will really be smoking marijuana under the guise of medicine? Proponents of “medical” marijuana want you to believe that only those with debilitating medical conditions who have unsuccessfully sought out other effective, approved treatment will qualify for “medical” marijuana. This is not true! One only needs to look at the numbers from states that have passed such legislation to see how widely the programs are being abused. Some state examples include:

As of July 1, 2009 the Oregon Medical Marijuana Program has 20,307 individuals that legally hold “medical” marijuana ID cards and of those, 88% are treating “severe pain” (an indefinable term that is being used to cover medical conditions such as menstrual cramps, headaches, and minor arthritis) rather than the more serious conditions such as cancer (4.2%), glaucoma (1.6%), and HIV+/AIDS (2.3%). Another 5,698 applications for ID cards are pending.

As of July 31, 2009, the Colorado Marijuana Registry Program has 11,094 individuals that legally hold registry ID cards and of those, 90% are treating “severe pain” (as explained above), and 27% are treating “muscle spasms” rather than the more serious conditions such as cancer (3%), glaucoma (1%), and HIV+/AIDS (1%). The overall average age of participants is 41, and 73% of approved applicants are male. Of the approved applicants, 55% live in the Denver/Boulder area.

Even more alarming are the numbers from California. In cities like San Diego where the issue has been closely examined, only 2% of those smoking marijuana as “medicine” have serious conditions such as AIDS, glaucoma and cancer. A full 98% are “treating” more minor conditions such as back and neck pain, anxiety, muscle spasms, insomnia, headaches and other insignificant conditions. But even more troubling is that 12% of the users are under 21!

Marijuana as a so-called medicine sends the wrong message to our nation’s youth. Years of marijuana prevention and education will be undermined by pot dispensaries opening up next to ballet and karate shops as they did in Yucca Valley, California. Reports compiled by the Department of Health and Human Services dating from 1999-2006 find states that have legalized marijuana under the guise of medicine continue to rank in the top ten for states with the highest marijuana use in the 12 and older age category.

Legalization will increase drug use. Drug activists often urge congressional members to adopt drug policies similar to that of some European nations, most commonly they use the Netherlands as an example to follow for marijuana policies. What they don’t tell you is that marijuana use in the Netherlands more than doubled in the decade following the establishment of the country’s famous marijuana coffeehouses. Similarly, between 1975 and 1991 when the state of Alaska decriminalized the personal possession of up to four ounces of marijuana, use of the drug went up significantly among Alaskan youth.

Legalization will, no doubt, increase crime-related and other societal costs. Approximately 75% of children in foster care are placed there because of parental substance abuse. Sexual assault is frequently facilitated by substance use – some experts put the number at over 60%. The U.S. Department of Justice found that 61% of domestic violence offenders also have substance abuse problems.

Would drugs be legalized for use by adults only, and if so, how can we ensure children don’t get them? If marijuana, for example, were legalized, it would be marketed like tobacco. Perception of harm would decrease with everyday ad placements undermining years of drug education and prevention work.

Legalization activists claim that eliminating penalties for drug possession will end black market sales. On the contrary, black markets most likely will thrive because they will sell for less and prey on those who are not of age.

Proponents of legalization say that nonviolent pot smokers are “suffering” at the hands of our criminal justice system and that nearly one-third of all federal drug defendants in 2001 are charged with marijuana possession. What they fail to point out is, according to the United States Sentencing Commission’s 2001 Sourcebook of Federal Sentencing Statistics, of all the drug defendants sentenced in federal court for marijuana crimes, the vast majority were convicted for trafficking. Only 2.3 percent (186 people) received sentences for simple possession, and of the 174 for whom sentencing information is known, only 63 actually served time behind bars! Even more eye-opening is that, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, the median amount of marijuana involved in the conviction of marijuana–only possessions was 115 pounds; not exactly the peaceful pot smokers portrayed by the pro-drug advocates.

Eliminating penalties for drug possession, rather than moving them through the court system, forfeits an extremely important opportunity for intervention that can leverage them into treatment. Research indicates that drug courts and diversion programs can reduce recidivism and promote other positive outcomes, especially for the most economically disadvantaged who cannot afford treatment programs.

Drug Courts combine drug treatment with the structure of the courtroom. Working as a team, the judge, probation officers, attorneys, and treatment providers cooperate to keep defendants in treatment long enough for it to work. Defendants are supervised closely, routinely drug tested, and held accountable by the judge for meeting their obligations to the court, society, themselves, and their families.

Research indicates that drug courts and diversion programs can reduce recidivism and promote other positive outcomes. Regular visits with the judge and proper rewards and sanctions, combined with substance abuse treatment can turn an offender into a productive member of society. Drug court programs are able to offer support that many participating defendants lack in their personal and professional relationships.

According to a study released by the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) in 2003 from a sample of 17,000 drug court graduates nationwide, within one year of program graduation, only 16.4 percent had been rearrested and charged with a felony offense. Historically, adult substance abuse offenders do not remain abstinent after an incarceration term alone; it is with the addition of treatment and the challenge of a drug court program that they are more likely to achieve the goal of remaining drug free.

According to the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP), for every $1.00 invested in Drug Court, taxpayers save as much as $3.36 in avoided criminal justice costs alone. When considering other cost offsets such as savings from reduced victimization and healthcare service utilization, studies have shown benefits range up to $12 for every $1 invested.

Research indicates that without accountability and regular supervision by a judge, 70% of drug offenders drop out of treatment. According to NADCP, drug courts are six times more likely to keep offenders in treatment long enough for them to get better.

Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maine, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington have enacted laws allowing the use of marijuana as a so-called medicine.

•2009 SB 216 would require recipients of public assistance to undergo random drug testing for eligibility and requires those who fail testing to enter into substance abuse treatment program. Supported-Failed.

•2009 SB 38 sought to apply current alcohol and drug testing requirements for motor vehicles to operations of boats and personal watercraft. Supported-Passed.

•2009 SB 217 sought to include the presence of Schedule I and II substance as a violation of current DWI and underage DUI laws. Supported-Passed.

•2009 Pro-drug group, Sensible Breckenridge is collecting signatures for a November ballot initiative seeking to remove all criminal penalties from Breckenridge's town code for the use of marijuana, under one ounce, by adults 21 and older. Oppose-Open.

•2011 SB 1098 to provide for the designation of certain synthetic cannabinoids and the herb salvia divinorum, and its active constituent salvinorum A, as controlled substances. Supported-Passed.

•2011 HB 6554 to prevent deaths due to drug overdoses by encouraging persons to make emergency calls summoning medical assistance without fear that seeking such assistance will lead to a prosecution for the illegal possession of drugs or drug paraphernalia. Monitored-Passed.

•2011 H 1407 to allow medical use of cannabis by citizens & allow Legislature to implement these provisions by general law. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 S 400 seeks to give the court discretion to allow offenders with prior violent felony offenses into any post-adjudicatory treatment based drug court program on a case by case basis after consideration of the offender’s record.Supported-Passed.

•2011 H 105 provides that person who violates open house party statute second or subsequent time commits misdemeanor of first degree; provides that person commits misdemeanor of first degree if violation of open house party statute causes serious bodily injury or death of minor. Supported-Passed.

•2011 S 104 provides that a person who has previously been admitted to a pretrial program may qualify for a misdemeanor pretrial substance abuse program. Supported-Failed.

•2011 S 1628 provides that a person who has previously been admitted to a pretrial program may still qualify for voluntary admission to a program. Supported-Failed.

•2011 S 302 creates the Drug Deterrence Pilot Program within the Agency for Workforce Innovation. Provides for the screening of individuals to determine which individuals must be tested. Provides terms of disqualification of benefits. Provides for authentication and the admissibility of drug tests in unemployment compensation hearings. Directs the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability to submit a report to the Governor and Legislature. Supported-Failed.

•2011 S 818 authorizes certain health care practitioners to complete a continuing education course relating to the prescription drug monitoring program. Prohibits certain persons from using titles or displaying signs that would lead the public to believe that they engage in the dispensing of controlled substances. Requires that the prescription drug monitoring program comply with the minimum requirements of the National All Schedules Prescription Electronic Reporting Act. Provides circumstances in which a pain-management clinic may be declared a public nuisance, etc. Supported-Failed.

•2011 S 1060 provides for defendants found guilty of certain misdemeanor drug offenses to be placed into licensed substance abuse education and treatment intervention programs. Authorizes private or public entities to provide such programs. Requires that a private entity provide such programs under contract and comply with applicable laws. Removes certain eligibility criteria prohibiting such placement if the defendant has previously been admitted to a pretrial program. Supported-Failed.

•2011 S 1386 authorizes the Department of Health to obtain patient records pursuant to a subpoena and without notification to the patient from a controlled-substance medical clinic under certain circumstances. Renames pain-management clinics as "controlled-substance medical clinics." Revises the circumstances in which the department may revoke the certificate of registration for such a clinic. Revises the responsibilities of a physician and an osteopathic physician who provides professional services in such a clinic, etc. Supported-Failed.

•2011 H 353 Requires the Department of Children and Family Services to perform a drug test on individuals who apply for benefits funded by the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program. Makes individuals responsible for bearing the cost of drug testing. Requires certain notice. Provides procedures for testing and retesting. Provides for notice of local substance abuse programs. Provides that, if a parent is deemed ineligible due to failing a drug test, the eligibility of the children is not affected. Supported-Passed.

•Proposed initiative for 2010 ballot from group called People United for Medical Marijuana. Initiative seeks to legalize marijuana under the guise of medicine. Opposed-Failed to qualify for the 2010 ballot, will continue collecting signatures for the 2012 ballot.

•2009 Jacksonville Beach Amendment seeks to make possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana a civil infraction instead of a criminal misdemeanor. The proposition is being led by the NORML Florida chapter and will need to collect 1,442 signatures from registered Jacksonville Beach voters to make the November 2010 ballot.

•2011 HB 199relating to Schedule I controlled substances, so as to provide for additional controlled substances; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 464 relating to general provisions for public assistance, so as to require random drug testing for recipients of certain public assistance; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date and applicability; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes. Supported-Failed.

•1982 marijuana legalized on condition regulation be written-which was not done-

therefore no effect from the law. Passed.

HAWAII

•2011 HB 544 reclassifies possession of less than one ounce of marijuana from a petty misdemeanor to a violation. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 HB 923/SB 1458 creates three classes of medical marijuana licenses, establishes a special marijuana sales tax on sales of medical marijuana, and establishes a fee for issuance and renewal of a license and special marijuana sales tax. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 HB 1624 establishes a 3-year pilot medical marijuana research program in the State to provide a means by which a team of qualified researchers could undertake medical marijuana research involving local qualifying medical marijuana patients. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 HB 1217/SB 1359 defines "dangerous drugs" in the penal code to include mephedrone and methylenedioxypyrovalerone, also known as MDPV.Supported-Failed.

•2011 SB 58 increases the amount of cannabis that constitutes an adequate supply by allowing a qualifying patient to possess 10 plants and 5 ounces of marijuana at any given time. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 SB 174 removes marijuana from the schedule I controlled substances list and places it in the schedule III controlled substances list. Opposed-Failed.

•2011SB 175 Transfers jurisdiction over the medical marijuana laws form the department of public safety to the department of public health. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 SB 1460 decriminalizes the possession of an ounce of marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 HB 2592/SB 2745 sought to make Hawaii’s controlled substance law consistent with that of federal law. Measure was deferred by committee, killing the bill.

•2010 HB 1334 would add salvia divinorum and salivinorin A to Scheudle V of the Hawaii controlled substances list. Supported-Failed.

•2010 HB 1335 sought to prohibit the sale of salvia divinorum and any of its byproducts, including salvinorin A, to minors under the age of 18. Supported-Failed.

•2010 HB 2938 would expand the ability of an employer to protect employees and prohibit the use of “medical” marijuana in the workplace. Supported-Failed.

•2010 HB 2275/SB 2342 would permit certain non-violent repeat offenders convicted of drug possession to be sentenced to alternative programs instead of to prison. Committees recommended that measure by held for further study. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 SB 2213 would permit the establishment of marijuana dispensaries. Bill passed the Senate but did not move out of House Committee prior to legislative deadline. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 HB 190 sought to reclassify possession of less than one ounce of marijuana from a petty misdemeanor to a civil violation. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 HB 226/SB 401 would expand current medi-pot law to allow for the possession of 12 plants and 7 ounces of marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 HB 227/SB 400 sought to decriminalize the possession of less than one ounce of marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 HB 305 would provide for the authority, procedures, and licensing related to the production of industrial hemp. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 HB 967 sought to allow for marijuana dispensaries and would also transfer the administration of the program from the department of public safety to the department of health. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 1192 would make possession of less than one ounce of marijuana a civil fine. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 190 would make possession of one ounce or less by adults for personal use a violation. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 1194 would set up statewide distribution centers and increase the amount of marijuana one is able to possess. Opposed-Failed.

•2008 HB 2675 sought the radical expansion of the number of plants allowable to “medical” marijuana users and sought to create a taskforce to study the transport of marijuana between the islands of Hawaii. Opposed-Passed and vetoed by Governor.

•2008 HB 2067 sought to establish a committee that may add other medical conditions to the definition of "debilitating medical condition" for the purpose of medical marijuana use; amends the definitions of "primary caregiver" and "written certification"; defines "adequate supply" to include seven plants and three ounces of usable marijuana; adds definition for "registration" and amends the registration requirements. Opposed-Failed.

•2008 HB 2673 would have created state protection for state employees who are “medical” marijuana users. Opposed-Failed.

•2008 HB 2676 would allow a person 21 years of age or older to possess up to 1 oz. of marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2008 HB 2674 would increase the amount of marijuana plants to be grown in a garden

•2011 HB 1146 Makes the manufacture, distribution, or advertising of flavored cigarettes a Class A infraction, and provides that the alcohol and tobacco commission may revoke the registration or sales certificate of a person who manufactures, distributes, or advertises flavored cigarettes. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 1153 Expands the types of persons that may participate in court established alcohol and drug services programs. Supported-Passed.

•2011 HB 1207 Provides that an individual who is otherwise qualified for unemployment compensation benefits is disqualified for benefits upon a report to the department of workforce development by a prospective employer that the individual was found to have had a positive post offer or pre-employment drug test. MonitoredFailed.

•2011 HB 1267 disqualifies an individual who is otherwise eligible for unemployment benefits if the individual is found to test positive for drugs or refuses to submit a drug test. Monitored-Failed.

•2011 SB 22 Provides procedures for the involuntary commitment of a person due to alcohol or drug abuse. Supported-Failed.

•2011 SR 20 Urging the Legislative Council to direct a Sentencing Policy Study Committee or other appropriate committee to study the effects of potential changes to the laws prohibiting marijuana use and possession in Indiana, including medical marijuana laws, decriminalization, and legalization. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 SSB 1016 a study bill relating to the control of marijuana, reschedules marijuana from a schedule I controlled substance to a schedule II controlled substance. The bill also strikes reference to the authority of the board of pharmacy to adopt rules for the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 SF 462/SSB 1055 bans synthetic cannabinoids. Supported-Failed.

•2011SF 90 establishes a requirement that individuals applying and receiving state aid participate in drug testing if such drug testing is not otherwise prohibited by law. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HF 183 relating to the control of marijuana, under the bill all types of marijuana are classified as schedule I controlled substances. The bill eliminates provision classifying marijuana used for medicinal purposes as a schedule II controlled substance and strikes references to the authority of the board to establish rules relating to the medicinal use of marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2011SF 266 This bill establishes new Code chapter 124D, the medical marijuana Act, relating to the possession and use of marijuana for therapeutic purposes, provides for the creation of nonprofit dispensaries, and provides for civil and criminal penalties and fees. The bill provides that a qualifying patient who has been issued and possesses a registry identification card shall not be subject to arrest, prosecution, or civil penalty, or denied any right or privilege, for the qualifying patient's medical use of marijuana pursuant to the provisions of the bill. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 228 sought to make Salvia a Schedule I controlled substance. Supported-Failed.

LOUISIANA

•2011 HB 7 Requires at least twenty percent of recipients of cash assistance through the Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program to be drug tested prior to receiving benefits. Supported-Failed.

•2011 LD 750 this bill provides that possession of 6 or fewer marijuana plants is a civil violation for which a fine of not more than $250 must be adjudged. Opposed-Passed.

•2011 LD 754 this bill provides that a person who possesses 5 ounces or less of marijuana commits a civil violation for which a fine of not more than $250 must be adjudged. Current law provides that a person who possesses 2 1/2 ounces or less of marijuana commits a civil violation for which a fine of not more than $1,000 must be adjudged. The bill also increases the amount of marijuana a person may possess under the Maine Medical Use of Marijuana Act from 2 1/2 ounces to 5 ounces. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 LD 887 This bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to include the names and related information of medicinal marijuana patients registered with the State in the Controlled Substances Prescription Monitoring Program operated by the Office of Substance Abuse. The information submitted is confidential as are the names of patients using controlled substances and prescribers of controlled substances. Monitored-Failed.

•2011 LD 1159 clarifies that an individual must posses both a valid registry identification card and a valid Maine issued driver's license or other Maine issued photo identification as proof of valid participation in the medical use of marijuana. Monitored-Passed.

•2011 LD 1192 This bill requires marijuana seized by law enforcement officers to be tested by a state laboratory and if found safe for use to be made available to a registered dispensary. Supported-Failed.

•2011 LD 1296 The bill provides for expanded access and optional registration under the Act. The bill does the following: 1. It allows a physician to determine whether a condition requires the use of medical marijuana.2. It amends the definition of "enclosed, locked facility."3. It defines "mature marijuana plant."4. It clarifies the definition of "qualifying patient." Opposed-Failed.

•2011 LD 1453 A Act to legalize and tax marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 LD 1811 expands current medi-pot law to allow for dispensaries. Opposed-Passed.

•2009 LD 1159 establishes a licensing regime for farming industrial hemp. Opposed-Passed and has been signed by the governor.

•2009 250 makes the possession of up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana a civil violation. Opposed-Passed.

•2011 HB 189/SB 171 listing specified chemical compounds, known as synthetic cannabinoids, on Schedule I for purposes of designating controlled dangerous substances that may not be legally used, possessed, or distributed. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 291/SB 308 Making marijuana a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance; requiring the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to issue a specified request for proposals to select authorized growers of marijuana for medical use; providing for specified requirements of authorized growers; prohibiting an authorized grower from holding any other permit issued under a specified provision of law or being a physician who prepares a specified written certification; etc. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 HB 585 Requiring individuals applying for or receiving temporary cash assistance benefits under the Family Investment Program to comply with eligibility requirements related to drug testing; authorizing temporary cash assistance benefits that have been terminated to resume under specified circumstances; requiring an addictions specialist to notify the Family Investment Program case manager if an applicant or recipient does not complete drug testing; etc. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 606 Establishing that the use or possession of less than 28.5 grams of marijuana is a civil offense, punishable by a fine of up to $100; establishing that a person who violates the prohibition against the use or possession of less than 28.5 grams of marijuana shall be issued a citation; establishing procedures for a Code violation proceeding under the Act; etc. Opposed-Passed.

•2011 HB 1207/SB 792 Authorizing the governing body of a county or a municipal corporation to adopt an ordinance or local law that prohibits a person from selling drug paraphernalia to a minor; authorizing a county or a municipal corporation to impose specified criminal or civil penalties; and providing that a local law adopted by a county or municipal corporation may authorize revocation or nonrenewable of a license or permit of a business found to be in violation of the local law. Monitored-Failed.

•2011 HB 845/HB 892 Listing mephedrone and specified similar chemical compounds on Schedule I for purposes of designating controlled dangerous substances that may not be legally used, possessed, or distributed. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 1229 Establishing the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program in the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene; establishing the mission of the Program; requiring the Program to carry out its mission by monitoring the prescribing and dispensing of specified substances by specified prescribers and dispensers; establishing the Advisory Board on Prescription Drug Monitoring to assist in the design, implementation, and evaluation of the Program; etc. Supported-Passed.

•2011 HB 1332/SB 0213 Prohibiting a person in Anne Arundel County from using or possessing with intent to use drug paraphernalia in specified public parks and recreation areas for a specified purpose; allowing a defendant in a specified prosecution involving drug paraphernalia relating to marijuana to introduce, and requiring the court to consider as a mitigating factor, specified evidence related to medical necessity; establishing penalties; etc. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 HB 1388 sought to legalize marijuana under the guise of medicine. Opposed-Withdrawn after an unfavorable committee report.

•2010 HB 712/SB 627 would require the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to select authorized growers of “medical” marijuana and would require the Department establish a registration program for “medical” marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 SB 295 would establish a drug prevention pilot program in schools. Support-Open.

•2009 HB 1536 states that they new law (Question 2, passed by voters last year, that decriminalize the possession of 1 ounce of marijuana by adults), wouldn’t apply to persons found to be in possession of marijuana within a school, school yard, play ground, public library, municipal owned land, building or vehicle. Support-Open, referred to Judiciary Committee.

•2009 HB 4006 would criminalize the possession of marijuana in a school zone and within 100 feet of a public park. Support-Open.

•2009 HB 1763 seeks to allow school committees, employers, and people in charge of places open to the public, shall be free to make rules and regulations prohibiting the use or possession of any amounts of marijuana on school grounds, places of employment, and places open to the public. Support-Open, referred to Judiciary Committee.

•2009 HB 4007 would criminalize the possession of marijuana while driving a vehicle. Support-Open.

•2009 SB 1586 would increase penalties for the possession of marijuana by anyone in a vehicle to a fine of at least $1000 and a suspension of ones drivers license for up to 90 days. Support-Open.

•2009 SB 1825 would allow police officers to conduct searches based on probable cause that marijuana is present in a vehicle and would also allow government employers to adopt, modify, and enforce drug testing policies and promulgate restrictions regarding employment licensing based on the use or possession of marijuana. Support-Open, referred to the Judiciary Committee.

•2008 Ballot Initiative: Medical and Recreational Peace Initiative. This initiative would allow anyone 18 or older to use marijuana on private property and would also permit cultivation of marijuana on residential properties. Opposed-Michigan Coalition for Compassionate Care was unable to submit required signatures by deadline.

•2006 HB 5470 “medical” marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2005 Ferndale Proposal D “medical” marijuana. Opposed-Passed.

•2004 Ann Arbor Proposal C “medical” marijuana. Opposed-Passed.

•Detroit Proposal M “medical” marijuana. Opposed-Passed.

•Petition to regulate cannabis grown in Michigan. Opposed-Failed to make ballot.

•2010 HB 1670sought to make changes to the laws regarding the classification of marijuana as a controlled substance and allows its use for “medicinal” purposes. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 HB 1210/HB 1331/SB 655 sought to change the controlled substance classification of all methamphetamine precursor drugs from Schedule IV and Schedule V to Schedule III, requiring a physician's prescription to obtain any of these drugs. Supported-Failed.

•2011 SB 423 creates a system of licensing for the cultivation, manufacturing, transportation and transfer of "medical" marijuana. Monitored-Amended and Passed.

•2009 HB 73 seeks to amend the current “medical” marijuana act to expand providers who can make a recommendation to use “medical” marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 SB 326 increases the amount of marijuana that can be possessed by ID cardholder and adds additional medical conditions to the current “medical” marijuana act. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 0541 seeks to make second and subsequent possession of less than 30 grams of marijuana a civil penalty. Opposed-Failed to pass first committee vote, missed deadline for revenue bill transmittal.

•2010 LB 800 provides for early intervention for kids a risk. Supported-Passed.

•2009 LB 123 includes Salvia as a controlled substance. Supported-Passed.

•2008 LB 844 re-criminalize marijuana possession. Supported-Passed.

•1978 decriminalized marijuana possession. Passed.

NEVADA

•2011 AB 235 relating to marijuana; exempting from state prosecution certain persons who engage in the medical use of marijuana; authorizing the production of marijuana under certain circumstances; authorizing the compensation of certain persons who provide marijuana for medical use under certain circumstances; authorizing a local government to adopt ordinances relating to the medical use of marijuana; increasing the amount of marijuana that a person may legally possess for medical use under certain circumstances; providing that the obtaining of a registry identification card for the medical use of marijuana is voluntary; prohibiting a person from engaging in the medical use of marijuana within a certain distance of certain places; providing a penalty; and providing other matters properly relating thereto. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 AB 339/SB 228 relating to controlled substances; requiring the State Board of Pharmacy to include certain substances known as synthetic marijuana on the list of schedule I controlled substances; providing criminal and civil penalties; and providing other matters properly relating thereto. Supported-Failed.

•2011 SB 256 relating to controlled substances; prohibiting certain acts relating to the cultivation of marijuana; requiring the State Board of Pharmacy to include on the list of schedule I controlled substances certain substances which are known as synthetic marijuana; revising provisions relating to the medical use of marijuana; providing civil and criminal penalties; and providing other matters properly relating thereto. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 SB 335 Relating to hypodermics; removing hypodermic devices from the list of paraphernalia that is prohibited for delivery, sale, possession, manufacture or use in this State; providing that hypodermic devices may be sold without a prescription if not prohibited by federal law; repealing a provision which makes it a crime to misuse a hypodermic device; and providing other matters properly relating thereto. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 SB 336 reschedules marijuana to a Schedule III controlled substance and establishes a pilot program where "medical" marijuana is distributed through pharmacies. Opposed-Failed.

•2012Marijuana Policy Project (MMP) set up its first state chapter in Las Vegas, NV in June 2009. The group said that they are too late to organize for the 2010 ballot but that they will start working to get marijuana legalization on the 2012 ballot.

•2010 Hemp for Biomass, would allow the Desert Research Institute to research hemp, a derivative of the cannabis plant, as a source of biomass for energy. Proponents are currently circulating the petition.

•2007 SB 6 sought 15 year prison sentence for possession of marijuana in presence of a

•2009 HB 575 sought to make provisions that driving with any amount of a Schedule I drug carries the same penalty as driving while intoxicated. Supported-Failed, committee found bill inexpedient to legislate, no action taken by full House prior to adjournment

•2009 HB 399 would allow for development of industrial hemp. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 555 sought to decriminalize the possession of one ounce or less of marijuana. Opposed-Failed, house voted 207-108 to kill the bill.

•2009 A1323/S2436seeks to criminalize the possession and sale of Salvia. Support-Open, referred to Judiciary Committee in both chambers, no movement since January.

•2009 A567/S933 would increase penalties for underage drivers who have consumed alcohol to a mandatory 180-day license suspension, a mandatory 30 days of community service and 16 classroom hours of supplemental alcohol education program. Support-Open, referred to the Assembly Law & Public Safety Committee.

•2009 A3160 establishes a “safe haven” from prosecution for minors who summon medical assistance for intoxicated underage persons as well as the person needing medical attention. Supported-Passed, awaits action from the governor.

•2009 HB 117sought to charge one with child abuse for having children in a meth house. Supported-Passed.

•2009 HB 874 would require Department of Education to establish drug testing policies for truants. Supported-Failed, died in committee.

•2009 SJM 52called for an evaluation of state’s current approach to drug policy and sought to create a task force that would include members from the Drug Policy Alliance. Opposed-Failed, tabled indefinitely.

•2009 HB 403/SB 377 sought to allow for the use of industrial hemp. Opposed-Failed died in committee.

•2009 SM 30 calls for a study on the commercialization of industrial hemp. Opposed-Passed.

•2002 6 Bills Medical use of marijuana; reforms in correctional and judicial systems; judicial discretion in sentencing, instead of mandatory prison time; civil penalties for basic marijuana possession; protection from civil-asset forfeiture for innocent property owners; offenders who have completed their drug sentences to apply for federal benefits that could provide economic stability and reduce the chances for repeat offenses. (Did not make it out of committee) Failed.

•2009 AB 9016 seeks to legalize marijuana under the guise of medicine. This bill differs from the above legislation in that it will not allow “patients” to possess marijuana plants. Oppose-Open, referred to Codes Committee.

•2009 A 7542/S 4041 “medical” marijuana bills. Oppose-Open.

•2009 A 552 seeks to create a new crime of aggravated sale of marijuana. Support-Open.

•2009 A 502 seeks to require testing of newborns for presence of drugs and rehabilitation services for parents of a baby that tests positive for drugs. Support-Open.

•2009 A 1195 prohibits the sale of urine with intent to defraud a drug screen. Support-Open.

•2011 H 324 to amend the penalty imposed for possession of certain quantities of marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 H 577 "medical" marijuana bill. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 H 601 to reduce blood borne disease infection and needle stick injuries by excluding needles, syringes, and other injection equipment from the list of items designated as drug paraphernalia and by decriminalizing the use, possession, manufacture, and delivery of injection equipment under the North Carolina drug paraphernalia act. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 SB 905 would direct the Child Fatality Task Force to study issues relating to child drug use and parents who supply drugs to their children. Supported-Failed, died in committee.

•2011 HB 2174 Adds oxycodone, hydrocodone, methadone and amphetamine to controlled substances subject to substantial quantity and commercial drug offense provisions. Adds endangering welfare of minor by allowing minor to enter or remain in place where unlawful activity involving controlled substances is maintained or conducted to crimes for which person may be placed on probation. Supported-Passed.

•2011 HB 2176 Modifies offense of frequenting place where controlled substances are unlawfully used to apply to person who knowingly frequents or remains at place where controlled substances are unlawfully used. Authorizes court to defer proceedings and place person on probation if person pleads guilty to or is found guilty of frequenting place where controlled substances are unlawfully used. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 2178 Includes preschool in meaning of school for purposes of controlled substances offenses committed within 1,000 feet of school. Supported-Failed.

•2011SB 377 Authorizes court to enter judgment of conviction for Class A misdemeanor when person is convicted of manufacturing amounts of marijuana not greater than amounts permitted for possession under Oregon Medical Marijuana Act. Supported-Failed.

•2011HB 3129 Modifies provisions relating to release of information from Oregon Medical Marijuana Program to Oregon Health Authority and law enforcement. Monitored-Failed.

•2011 SB 777 Modifies list of debilitating medical conditions for which medical marijuana is available and removes power of Oregon Health Authority to add other debilitating medical conditions to list. Requires registry identification cardholder to provide updated documentation from physician about debilitating medical condition to authority every six months. Monitored-Failed.

•2011 HB 3426 Requires applicant for marijuana grow site registration to notify Oregon Health Authority if premises of marijuana grow site are rented or leased and provide name and address of owner. Requires authority to notify owner of premises that authority has registered marijuana grow site at premises. Declares emergency, effective on passage. Monitored-Failed.

•2011 SB 874 Provides that registry identification cardholders and designated primary caregivers may be responsible for indoor marijuana grow site. Directs State Department of Agriculture to establish registration system for marijuana farms. Directs State Board of Pharmacy to adopt rules allowing pharmacy or pharmacist to purchase marijuana from marijuana farm and dispense usable marijuana to registry identification cardholders. Opposed-Failed.

•Oregonians for Cannabis Reform 2010, sought to permit state-licensed cultivation of marijuana and sale of marijuana to adults through state liquor stores. Opposed-Failed, withdrawn by petitioners on 3/2/09.

•Marijuana Tax Act, language has been filed with secretary of state by three different sets of chief petitioners that would in one way or another legalize marijuana and allow it to be taxed. Oppose-Open.

•Oregon Regulated Medical Marijuana Supply System seeks to establish marijuana dispensaries within the state of Oregon. Oppose-Open, group was approved to gather signatures on 9/1/08 and as of April 2009 they have 35,000 signatures.

•Oregon Marijuana Prescription Act, would replace current “medical” marijuana act with a marijuana prescription program using medications made with synthetic cannabinoids that are FDA approved. Support-Open.

•2009 SB 388sought to expand current “medical” marijuana act to increase size of seedling marijuana plants. Opposed-Failed to make it out of committee by session deadline.

•2009 SB 285sought to direct the State Board of Pharmacy to classify marijuana as a Schedule II drug. Opposed-Failed, legislature adjourned without taking action on bill.

•2009 HB 2503 would prohibit discrimination in employment based on one’s status as a “medical” marijuana cardholder. Opposed-Failed, legislature adjourned without taking action on bill.

•2009 HB 2341sought to modify the definition of marijuana for purposes of controlled substances laws. Opposed-Failed, legislature adjourned without taking action on bill.

•2009 HB 2881 sough to establish procedures for employment related marijuana testing, in which positive marijuana tests would be sent to a medical review officer and if the positive test belonged to a “medical” marijuana cardholder, the officer consult with the individual on their pattern of use and potential for impairment. If after review, the officer believes there is no risk to the employer, the positive test would not be revealed. Opposed-Failed, legislature adjourned without taking action on bill.

•2009 SB 676would allow for the use of industrial hemp. Oppose-Open, bill passed through the legislature and awaits action from the governor.

•2009 SB 728 instructs the Board of Pharmacy to reschedule marijuana to a schedule II, III, IV, or V drug. Oppose-Open, Passed the legislature and awaits action from the governor.

•2009 HB 3052 expands the abilities of employers to prohibit the use of “medical” marijuana in the workplace. Supported-Fail to make it out of committee, the full House voted on a motion to pull the bill out of committee and bring it before the full House for a vote. The motion failed with a 29-29 vote, all 29 votes against the motion were cast by Democrats.

•2009 HB 3274/SB 959sought to require the Department of Health to establish and operate a marijuana production facility, distribute marijuana through pharmacies, and tax marijuana. This bill would make all private marijuana grows illegal. Legislature adjourned without taking action on bill. This legislation, which was supported by law enforcement, the districts attorneys and Oregon Partnership, was introduced in efforts to eliminate private marijuana grows and the dangers that have had on Oregon communities.

•2009 SB 427 would allow an employer to adopt a comprehensive drug-free workplace program that would include requiring a “medical” marijuana card holder to inform an employer before using marijuana, and would not require an employer to make workplace accommodations regardless of where and when the marijuana is used. Supported-Failed, legislature adjourned without taking action.

•2008 HB 3635 sought to allow employers to discriminate against “medical” marijuana patients but only in jobs that they deemed hazardous, leaving all other employers unable to do anything about employees working while intoxicated and /or potentially impaired. Opposed-Failed.

•2008 IP 124 would allow for the creation of pot dispensaries. Opposed-on 7/2/08 initiative was withdrawn by chief petitioners.

•2008 Oregon Crime fighting Act IP #131-Supported. SOS was working with allies in Oregon to get this on the November 2008 ballot however due to a change in the signature gathering laws in Oregon and time constraints we are looking to gather more support and continue for the 2010 ballot.

•2011 H 5213 this act would treat a second offense of possession of marijuana as a misdemeanor. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 H 5290 this act would permit a landlord to refuse to rent to a medical marijuana cardholder who intends to grow marijuana on the leased premises. This act would take effect upon passage and would apply to lease agreements executed after the effective date of this act. Supported-Failed.

•2011 H 5401/S 204 This act would make various changes to the medical marijuana act including cultivation and dispensing of medical marijuana would only be authorized by compassion centers. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 S 270 This act would establish a marijuana policy for the state creating penalties for possession of one ounce or less. Opposed-Failed.

•2011S 868/H 5403 This act would place Methylone, MDPV, Mephedrone and other compounds commonly known and marketed as "bath salts", on Schedule 1 of the Uniform Controlled Substances Act. Supported-Failed.

•2011 H 5591 This act would regulate the use, sale and taxation of marijuana. It would also increase the states evidentiary burden to prove a driver guilty of operating a motor vehicle under the influence if they have a marijuana blood presence. Opposed-Failed.

•2011 H 5601 This act would apply appropriate state taxes to all compassion centers revenue exceeding the amount of five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000). Opposed-Failed.

•2011 S 783 This act would regulate the use, sale and taxation of marijuana. It would also increase the states evidentiary burden to prove a driver guilty of operating a motor vehicle under the influence if they have a marijuana blood presence. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 H 7217 sought to decriminalize marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 H 7838 sought to tax and regulate marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 H 5220 sought to add blunt cigars and rolling papers to drug paraphernalia list, making it a misdemeanor crime to sell or possess these items if the individual is under the age of 18. Supported-Failed, committee recommended measure is held for further study.

•2009 H 5006 would create misdemeanor criminal offense of defrauding the administration of a drug or alcohol test. Supported-Failed, passed House on 2/11/09, referred to Senate Judiciary Committee but was not acted on before adjournment, bill will carry over to 2010 session.

•2008 H7888 would change the current “medical” marijuana act to include the creation of “compassion centers”- pot dispensaries. Opposed. Legislation failed, however in a joint resolution the House and Senate passed a resolution that will spend the off legislation session studying the idea.

•Petition drive to legalize marijuana as so-called medical treatment for severe and chronic pain. Oppose-Open, supporters are working to gather the 16,776 signatures needed to get the proposal on the 2010 ballot. Signatures are due by April 6, 2010.

•2009 HB 1127 “medical” marijuana bill. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 1128 would allow for medical necessity to be used in certain marijuana possession cases. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 1090 adds Salvia to the list of Schedule I drugs. Supported-Passed.

•2008 HB 1060 increased penalties for possession with intent to sell to a minor.

•2011 SB 365 requires the department of human services to establish a mandatory drug screening program for adult recipients of Families First in order for adults to be eligible for the program. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 23 This bill modifies provisions relating to the Utah Controlled Substances Act by creating a controlled class of listed synthetic cannabinoids substances found in products often referred to as “spice.” Supported-Passed.

•2011 HB 200 This bill modifies the Criminal Code prohibiting the sale, distribution, and other activities relating to products containing a synthetic cannabinoids to any person less than 19 years of age.Supported-Failed.

•2010 HB 299 modifies the UT health code related to efforts to inform people of the effects of consuming alcohol during pregnancy. Supported-Passed.

•2010 HB 28 enhances and further defines the states controlled substance database. Supported-Passed.

•2010 HB 36 amends the controlled substance database to provide for notification to a practitioner when a person is convicted of a crime for driving under the influence of, or impaired driving under the influence of a controlled substance the practitioner may have prescribed to that person. Supported-Passed.

•2011 HB 24 Establishes a drug treatment court in the City of Bristol subject to the requirements and conditions established by the state Drug Treatment Court Advisory Committee, provided the court is funded within existing state and local appropriations. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 1691/SB 1063 Establishes the Service members and Veterans Court Act. The bill allows the establishment of service members and veterans courts as specialized court dockets within the existing structure of Virginia's court system, offering judicial monitoring of intensive treatment and supervision of offenders who appear to suffer from mental illness, alcohol or drug abuse, posttraumatic stress disorder, or traumatic brain injury, any of which appear to be related to military service. Supported-Passed.

•2011 HB 1434 Creates a new category for "synthetic marijuana" as a series of controlled substances listed in Schedule 1. Supported-Passed.

•2011 HB 1449/HB 1987/SB 962 Refines the list of substances involved in the manufacture of methamphetamine, the possession of two of which, coupled with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine, is punished as a Class 6 felony. Monitored-Failed.

•2011 HB 1762 Adds 5-methoxy-N,N-dimethyltryptamine (5-MeO-DMT), a hallucinogenic substance found in psychoactive toads and plants, to the list of controlled substances in Schedule I. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 2154 requires local departments of social services to screen each VIEW program participant to determine whether probable cause exists to believe the participant is engaged in the use of illegal drugs. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 2180 Provides for the establishment of Drug Treatment Courts in Dickenson, Russell, and WiseCounties.Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 2254 Provides for the establishment of a Drug Treatment Court in MontgomeryCounty. Supported-Failed.

•2011 SB 1028/HB 2431 Provides for the establishment of drug treatment courts in Buchanan, Dickenson, Goochland, Montgomery, and Russell Counties, and for the establishment of a drug treatment court in the County of Wise that will serve the Counties of Lee, Scott, and Wise; provided that each court is funded within existing state and local appropriations. Supported-Failed.

•2010 HB 1166 makes deceiving a prescriber in order to procure prescriptions a class I misdemeanor. Supported-Passed.

•2010 HB 24 drug court. Supported-Failed.

•2010 HB 663 Veterans courts. Supported-Failed.

•2010 HB 1134 sought to decriminalize marijuana. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 HB 1136 “medical” marijuana bill. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 2275 sought to establish a drug court program in FranklinCounty. Supported-Passed, approved by governor.

•2006 HR 737 –loss of driving privileges for marijuana possession, raise the potential penalties for simple marijuana possession by reclassifying the offense from a Class 2 to a Class I misdemeanor, carry up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 3079 create a random drug testing program for applicants and recipients of temporary assistance for needy families cash benefits and for elected officials. Any applicant or recipient who fails an initial drug test will be required to pass a second drug test in the following thirty to sixty days to maintain eligibility for or recipients of such benefits. Supported-Failed.

•2011 SB 63 extending the number of prohibited products included in definition of “salvia divinorum.” Supported-Failed.

•2011 SB 534 The purpose of this bill is to require mandatory drug testing of coal miners. The bill identifies the minimum drugs to be tested for. The bill requires testing to be done at the state's expense. The bill establishes the date when the required testing programs must be in place. The bill sets forth the consequences if a miner has had his of her mining certificate revoked by another state. The bill provides that no person who tests positive may be employed as a coal miner. Supported-Failed.

•2011 HB 3251 The purpose of this bill is to create the Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act. The bill states legislative intent of permitting the medical use of marijuana. The bill determines the types of patients and their physicians and caregivers who are exempt from prosecution. The bill also limits the amount of marijuana that may be possessed. The bill designates compassion centers and prohibits the operation of a motor vehicle. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 HB 2992 sought to prohibit delivery or distribution of illegal drugs to students in and around schools, including drugs not listed as a controlled substance and also sought to establish delivery of drugs as a criminal offense when taking place on or near a school. Supported-Failed to make it out of committee before adjournment, bill can be carried over to 2010 session.

•2008 HB 3219 and SB 248 sought to prohibit the implementation of the Real ID Act. S.O.S. opposed this bill, believing that by not participating in the Real ID Act, West Virginia would lose the ground that they have made fighting their war on methamphetamine. Opposed-Failed.

•2002 SB447 Authorizing commercial hemp production. Opposed-Passed.

WISCONSIN

•2010 AB 186 criminalizes Salvia. Supported-Passed.

•2010 AB 206/SB 740 hemp bills. Opposed-Failed.

•2010 AB 554/SB 368 “medical” marijuana bills. Opposed-Failed.

•2009 AB 554 seeks to legalize marijuana under the guise of medicine. Oppose-Open.

•2009 AB 206 creates a committee to study the uses of industrial hemp. Open-Oppose, referred to committee on rural economic development, no movement since April referral.

California was the first state to allow “medical” marijuana dispensaries. Law enforcement officials are struggling to keep up with the increased crime associated with the influx of pot dispensaries. To date there are over 600 marijuana dispensaries operating in Los Angeles, and in some neighborhoods the number of “medical” marijuana dispensaries outnumbers the amount of Starbucks and McDonalds.

Dispensaries are easy marks for criminal activities because of valuable marijuana crops and large amounts of cash. Operators of dispensaries have been attacked and murdered by armed criminals both at their storefronts and at home. Common secondary byproducts related to dispensaries include: drug dealing, sales to minors, loitering, heavy vehicle and foot traffic in retail areas, increased noise, and robberies of customers just outside the facilities.

Dispensaries are in business to make money and will sell marijuana to anyone who produces a written recommendation. These recommendations can be obtained by paying physicians a fee and claiming any medical condition, even a headache. Dispensaries claim to operate as nonprofit, but they have been tied to organized crime gangs and are often multi-million dollar profit centers.

The scientific evidence does not support the efficacy of NEPs. Four different studies of 25 cities with NEPs published in 2004 reported the following:

70% of all intravenous drug users continue to share needles,

Unprotected sex, rather than needles, is a major cause of the spread of blood borne diseases

Hepatitis C reached epidemic levels in some cities studied,

The number of new young addicts increased, and

Drug dealing and crime increased.

Studies have shown that treatment for addiction reduces drug abuse and the sharing of injecting drug paraphernalia, not abandoning addicts to the devastation of their disease by supplying them with the tools they need to lock themselves in the prison of addiction. NEPs rarely, if ever, refer addicts to treatment and/or transition them into a treatment program. Simply put, needle exchange programs enable the addicted to continue down the destructive and deadly path of drug dependence.

Needle giveaway programs distribute millions of needles every year with little or no accountability for the needles once they have been distributed. The idea of dirty needles being haphazardly discarded in public places raises legitimate concern to affected communities. A 2001 survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that in 1998 over 19,397,527 needles were handed out in the U.S., and at best 62% were exchanged, meaning that 7-8 million needles were unaccounted for.

Needle exchange programs send a confusing message to our youth. Telling them not to use drugs but handing out needles reduces the perception of harm and undermines prevention and treatment efforts. Children need a clear message; giving out needles to illegal drug users sends the wrong message to the youth of our nation.

While all the effects of Salvia are unknown, it is clear that use of the drug among our nation’s youth is growing at an alarming rate. What we do know of the drug is frightening. Abusers typically experience vivid hallucinations that generally last up to an hour. High doses of the drug can cause unconsciousness and short term memory loss.

Medical studies have yet to determine the long term effects of Salvia Divinorum, but information provided by abusers of the drug suggests that the long term effects may be similar to that of other hallucinogens such as LSD, including depression and schizophrenia. As of February 2009, fourteen states have passed legislation banning the sale and/or possession of Salvia Divinorum.

Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) are being used to deter and identify illegal activity such as prescription forgery, indiscriminate prescribing and "doctor shopping." Most programs provide patient-specific drug information upon request of the patient’s physician or pharmacist. Some state programs proactively notify physicians when their patients are seeing multiple prescribers for the same class of drugs. These programs assist healthcare professionals in managing patient care and have been extremely successful in thwarting drug diversion in a number of states.

The National Survey on Drug Use and Health reports that in 2000, 3.8 million people aged 12 and older reported the current nonmedical use of a prescription drug. In 2006, that figure increased more than 84 percent to seven million Americans, with the misuse of pain relievers representing three quarters of the overall problem. The same report also found that prescription drug abuse among young adults aged 18-25 increased 20 percent from 2002 to 2006, driven by the non-medical use of prescription pain relievers.

The U.S. Department of Justice Office of Justice Programs contracted with Simeone Associates, Inc. to evaluate PDMPs’ impact on the supply and abuse of controlled substances. At the time of the study, 20 states had implemented systems to monitor the prescription and sale of drugs identified as controlled substances by the DEA. The results of the study indicate that the per capita supply of prescription pain relievers and stimulants increased substantially over the 1993 to 2003 period and that this growth was much more pronounced in states that did not have PDMPs than in states that did.

An Official Prescription Program can be established as its own program or as an enhancement to an already established PDMP. Official Prescription Programs require the use of a single prescription format per state, allowing only authorized prescribers to order such products, and by establishing an automated prescription validation process.

After implementing an official prescription program, New York Medicaid reported savings of $18 million in January 2007 alone and $68 million through May 2007. New York is not the only state that would benefit financially by reducing Medicaid fraud. According to a recent report by the Government Accountability Office, an audit of government programs in five large states found about 65,000 instances of beneficiaries improperly obtaining potentially addictive drugs at the cost of $65 million during 2006 and 2007. The report concludes that when bills from doctor visits and the potential for Medicaid fraud in the states not surveyed is taken into account, hundreds of millions of dollars are at stake.

The goal of student drug and alcohol testing is to deter substance use. Students who know they will be detected are less likely to use drugs or alcohol. Schools implementing drug and alcohol testing should also have a student assistance program that can provide counseling and substance abuse education.

The courts clearly support random testing of student athletes and/or students who participate in extracurricular activities because these are privileges, and schools can set conditions on participation.

Drug and alcohol testing is effective and extremely accurate when properly administered and student dignity and privacy are preserved. The purpose is not to expose and punish students for drug use, but to deter use, intervene early, and help those who have become dependent on drugs or alcohol.

A study from Ball State University showed that 73 percent of high school principals reported a reduction in drug use among students subjected to a drug-testing policy, but only 2 percent reported an increase.